Woeful Week: Austin FC Falls to St. Louis, Playoff Hopes Concerning

The Austin FC’s recent struggles culminated in a demoralizing 3-1 loss to St. Louis City SC on Saturday, extending their losing streak to three matches in the last eight days and failing to clinch a coveted playoff berth. The defeat, coupled with Wednesday’s U.S. Open Cup final loss to Nashville, has cast a dark cloud over the Verde & Black faithful.

Lack of Energy and Communication

The match showcased an Austin lineup that looked flat and mentally drained, likely suffering a “hangover effect” from the midweek final. Passes went astray, communication was visibly absent, and players hesitated on shot attempts. Head coach Nico Estévez summed up the mood: “It was a horrible week for us. We feel really bad. But this is sports, and this is life. And life hits you, and you have to keep going.”

St. Louis City SC capitalized on Austin’s lethargy, led by a brilliant two-goal performance from Marcel Hartel. His first was a stunning strike from about 25 yards out, and his second demonstrated exceptional control, placing the ball perfectly with the outside of his foot. Austin’s lone goal came from Oleksandr Svatok, his first of the season. St. Louis sealed the victory with a stoppage-time goal from Simon Becher.

Pressure Mounts for Final Matches

Despite the high stakes—the chance to secure a playoff spot—Austin FC only managed two shots on goal. “We lacked in having the calm and composure,” Estévez admitted, noting the pressure the team felt.

The loss not only delayed their playoff entry but also dropped them uncomfortably close to the play-in game positions. Austin is now only three points clear of the eighth and ninth-place spots, which battle in a one-game wild card match. To avoid this scenario, the Verde & Black must find results in their final two regular season matches against LAFC and San Jose. The somber mood postgame suggests a quick turnaround in energy and execution is desperately needed.